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A 19th Century Swiss Chateau Uniquely Located On Lake Geneva

Recent modifications and renovations have brought this mansion up to contemporary standards

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Listing of the Day

Location: Vaud Canton, Switzerland

Price: Starting at $30 million

Gustave Eiffel got all the credit for building the Eiffel Tower, but it was lesser known architect Stephen Sauvestre who designed the distinctive decorative arches of its base, added the glass pavilion to its first level and the cupola at the top, as well as choose the color of the tower.

Sauvestre also designed this unique lakeside mansion in western Switzerland, and the stone-clad iron arches that suspend the home over the shore of Lake Geneva are certainly reminiscent of the structure of the iconic Parisian tower.

The discreet and private residence first went to auction in June when, its reserve was not met, despite a number of offers. It will go to auction for the second time on Sept.14, starting at $30 million, without reserve. The home lies 20 miles from the center of Geneva in the Prangins area, which is home to many large estates. But this particular home is one of the very few houses facing south, and it stands directly over Lake Geneva. "It’s the only house that I’m aware of that fits over the lake," said agent Alexander Koch de Gooreynd.

More:A Handsome Ski Chalet with Endless Mountain Views

The longevity of a home so close to the water might be a concern, but the unique design of this home makes it possible—the base of the house is metal surrounded by local, well-wearing stone.

The Stats

At almost 14,000 square feet, this 22-room, four-floor home has 10 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms and sits on nine acres of forest and park land. It includes four ballroom-sized reception rooms, three working kitchens and a 1,000-square-foot staff annex to the back of the house, with its own kitchen, living room, two bedrooms and a bathroom.

Amenities

As well as providing more than ample space for entertaining—with its eight living rooms and four ballrooms (with the ballroom on the top floor described as having almost 10- meter-high "cathedral ceilings" extending into its eaves), the home also boasts a gym, a sauna, and a private harbor. Stone service stairs and a recently updated hydraulic elevator provide alternative access to all levels of the house.

More:Pasta Heir Lists Swiss Estate for About $72 Million

Celebrity Cachet

Originally called "Villa les Bleuets," this home was built in 1896 as the summer residence of Jean-Philippe Worth, the Parisian fashion designer to the French Royal family, whose larger main property was located further up in the hills. It originally sat on the edge of Napoleon’s estate, and retains neighbors who are descendant from Napoleon’s family, according to Mr. de Gooreynd.

Agent: Alex Koch de Gooreynd, Knight Frank

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